Professional Mermaid in Hawaii

Sea Change: Kariel dreamed of being a mermaid as a child; these days she can can dive to depths of 50 feet and go without air for three minutes.

Published: 2011.08.02 08:00 AM

photo: alicia franco

“Everybody has a talent. You shouldn’t be shy to use it, share it with the world,” says professional mermaid Kariel. Her handcrafted fin weighs 30 pounds when wet, and is made out of recycled wet suits. Kariel dreamed of being a mermaid as a child; these days she can can dive to depths of 50 feet and go without air for three minutes. In addition to promotional appearances, birthday parties and photo shoots, Kariel works at the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, where she teaches an aqua fitness class. Her costume may be fantastical, but the workout is real. “It’s serious. You can burn up to 800 calories an hour,” she says. For more information, visit mermaidkariel.com.